It’s been announced that the next round of the Co-op Local Community Fund is opening next week – on Tuesday May 4th. This will be the seventh time local clubs, charities and organisations have been invited to apply for funding raised by Co-operative members.
Every time a card holder shops in store, or buys a Co-op product such as insurance, cash is raised for local projects here in Ruddington and in Clifton; which members can select, if they have a preference. Since the fund started, around five years’ ago, more than £50,000 has already been handed out.
Gwen Eyre, Co-op member pioneer for Ruddington and Clifton, explains: “Any local group is welcome to apply. However we are particularly keen to hear from anyone who fits with Co-op’s ethos of ‘Co-operating for a fairer world’. The three themes cover: Fair access to food, Community wellbeing and Education and employment for young people.”
For more information, and to check eligibility for funding, you should visit https://causes.coop.co.uk or contact Gwen via Gwen.Eyre@coop.co.uk.
Gwen continues: “A new feature this year will ask groups to register on the online community centre created by Co-op called ‘Co-operate’. This allows organisations to list their group or event to attract new participants, volunteers or ask for donations. There are also helpful ‘How to’ guides to share ideas for making the most of your group here: https://co-operate.coop.co.uk.”
Meantime, the current round of funding will continue until November 2021, so it’s not too late to start supporting one of the three current causes. These are 1st Ruddington Scout Group & Bloomin’ Dementia in Ruddington, and StepOutStayOut in Clifton.
“I was delighted to hear these organisations have just received their first payment of £1066, £1349 and £880 respectively” adds Gwen. “If you shop in Co-op – even just occasionally – please apply for a blue membership card and select a cause to support. This is FREE money to benefit our community!”
A new card costs £1 but, when you buy selected Co-op products and services, 2p for every £1 you spend subsequently goes into your Co-op Membership account (to spend on yourself!). The same amount is then given to support community organisations and local causes in our area.
You can visit https://www.coop.co.uk/membership to apply.
